Pronunciation: /ˈsɪvəˌlaɪz/

Definitions of civilize

verb to bring a place or people to a stage of social, cultural, and moral development considered to be more advanced

Example Sentences

A1 People need to civilize their behavior in public places.

A2 Parents play a crucial role in teaching their children how to civilize themselves.

B1 Efforts to civilize society include promoting education and respect for others.

B2 Historically, empires sought to civilize the lands they conquered through various means.

C1 The philosopher believed that art and culture were essential tools to civilize a nation.

C2 In order to civilize a society, it is necessary to address systemic issues such as inequality and injustice.

Examples of civilize in a Sentence

formal It is important for societies to civilize their citizens through education and moral teachings.

informal My parents always remind me to behave properly and civilize myself when in public.

slang Dude, you need to chill out and civilize a bit. You're being too wild.

figurative The artist sought to civilize his chaotic thoughts by expressing them through his paintings.

Grammatical Forms of civilize

past tense

civilized

plural

civilizes

comparative

more civilized

superlative

most civilized

present tense

civilize

future tense

will civilize

perfect tense

has civilized

continuous tense

is civilizing

singular

civilize

positive degree

civilized

infinitive

to civilize

gerund

civilizing

participle

civilized

Origin and Evolution of civilize

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'civilize' originated from the Latin word 'civilis' meaning 'relating to citizens or city life'.
Evolution of the word: The word 'civilize' has evolved from its original meaning of 'relating to citizens or city life' to encompass the idea of social and cultural advancement, often associated with bringing order and refinement to societies or individuals.